Application of laser cleaning technology on metal cultural relics

Abstract

Metal cultural relics are witnesses to the development of human history and civilization, containing rich value and connotation. Metal cultural relics have existed in the natural environment for hundreds and thousands of years and are facing severe corrosion problems, urgently requiring protection. Cleaning is the primary task of protection for metal cultural relics. Laser cleaning technology has attracted the interest of cultural relics scholars because of non-abrasive, non-contact, high efficiency and applicability to various materials. In order to enhance the understanding and application of laser cleaning technology on metal cultural relics, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the research advancements regarding the history and mechanism of laser cleaning technology, the corrosion mechanism of different metal cultural relics (copper relics, iron relics, silver relics, gold relics), as well as the application achievements of laser cleaning for metal cultural relics. The present study discusses the key problems and the development prospects of laser cleaning technology of metal cultural relics. Ultimately, the article will provide new ideas for the research and practice for the cleaning and protection of metal cultural relics.